It always helps to start with a complaint to the Better Business Bureau even if they don't have any enforcement authority. You can complain to the Contraactors State License, but it will be months before you see any action taken if they act at all.

Finally, you should consider small claims court. Individuals can now file claims for up to $7500 beging in 01/01/06. If you file a small claims lawsuit, the CSLB would probably close its file. However, failing to pay a civil judgment arise from a construction contract is grounds for suspending the contractor's license of the judgment is unpaid for more that 90 days.

If you file small claims, you would have your hearing in about 4-6 weeks. This is much sooner than the CSLB would act.

In a nutshell, the contractor at issue should be sent a very powerful legal demand letter regarding the money owed, and if he fails to comply thereafter, he should be immediately sued in small claims court. If you would like prompt, affordable legal assistance in drafting/sending such a demand letter and/or small claims court assistance, contact us this week for a free phone consultation.